For more than a decade, BBC One’s Mrs Brown’s Boys has been a hit with viewers, but it doesn’t mean it hasn’t been plagued by scandals, including Brendan O’Carroll’s racist joke during a script reading.
In 1992, the show began as a radio play before going on the road as a theatre production. Starring and written by Brendan O’Carroll, who portrays the main character Agnes Brown, the Irish comedian has remained on the sitcom since its television launch. However, the cast members around him have constantly changed over the years.
Here, we take a look at all the backstage scandals and drama that have impacted the dynamics of Mrs Brown’s Boys off-screen, from the racist joke heard via a character to actors suddenly leaving.
Mrs Brown’s Boys racism row over Brendan O’Carroll’s joke
While rehearsing for this year’s Christmas special, Brendan used an offensive term during a read-through in front of the cast and crew while portraying Agnes.
The remark didn’t go unnoticed and those shocked by the racist slur acted immediately. This resulted in an urgent investigation and rehearsals were temporarily put on hold.
“At a read-through of the Mrs. Brown’s Boys Christmas specials, there was a clumsy attempt at a joke, in the character of Agnes, where a racial term was implied. It backfired and caused offence which I deeply regret and for which I have apologised,” Brendan told the Mirror.
The BBC also had their say on the matter: “Whilst we don’t comment on individuals, the BBC is against all forms of racism and we have robust processes in place should issues ever arise.”
Brendan’s refusal to stop swearing
Mrs Brown might be the loveable grandmother the public adores, but that doesn’t mean she hasn’t got a potty mouth.
In order for BBC bosses to air the show at an earlier time in a pre-watershed time slot, they have begged the actor to stop cursing throughout the episodes.
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